For sustainability practitioners there are both required and desirable skills:

Required

• Passion for sustainability: This topic is still new and emerging and requires someone able to enthusiastically articulate the value proposition within the organization.
  
• Financial acumen: An understanding of return-on-investment (ROI) estimates, as well as how intangible assets are accounted for. 
  
• Political savvy: At minimum, practitioners must possess an understanding of how to navigate an organization's decision-making and operational structures.
  
• Working knowledge of the triple-bottom-line: How the people, planet, and prosperity paradigm applies to the organization.

Desirable

• Advanced degrees in business, environmental sciences and/or engineering, with a concentration in sustainability.
• Highly networked with contacts in a variety of industries.
• Sustainability certifications: There are a number of institutions which offer certifications, some of which can be earned remotely through online courses. For those without an academic background in environmental science or a related program, the certificates offer a unique way to learn more about the field. MBA programs and organizations including the International Society of Sustainability Professionals, University of Wisconsin Sustainable Management Program and University of Oregon Sustainability Leadership Program offer certificates in sustainability. These are desirable in lieu of or in addition to an environmental-related degree.